This is another example of an open-aired “wall” – a geometric hex shape that provides subtle, if not outright, privacy to the bedroom that abuts the common living area. Notice the effectiveness of the trailing plant in providing definition amidst openness as well.

Without a bunch of interior walls blocking the natural light from the windows, the natural light in an open floor plan’s great room far exceeds that of a closed floor plan. Not only the light, but the views through the windows themselves are increased and enhanced. This permeation of light plays an important role in maintaining a spacious, airy feel, regardless of the actual size of the open floor layout.

This form of underfloor heating involves circulating water from a boiler through flexible tubing that has been installed in the floor (e.g., on top of the subfloor in grooved panels, clipped to the underside of the floor, or embedded into poured concrete).